Cantv Retirees Protest Elimination of $200 Bonus in Caracas

Dozens of retired employees, pensioners, and survivors of Venezuela's state-owned telecommunications company, Cantv, gathered outside the company's main headquarters in Caracas to protest the abrupt elimination of a $200 monthly bonus. This benefit, described as a regular and permanent income supplement, was crucial for the financial stability and quality of life of over 11,000 former workers nationwide.

Protesters decried the decision as a "flagrant violation" of their acquired rights, demanding its immediate reinstatement. The suspension of the 'Complemento al Ingreso Mínimo Vital' has created a dire situation, particularly for elderly individuals with complex medical needs. One affected retiree, who suffers from chronic heart, kidney, and diabetes conditions, reported being unable to afford essential medications for five days due to the missing funds.

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When I found out the money hadn't arrived in my bank account, it caused me anguish because I am a person with chronic problems: heart problems, kidney problems, and diabetes. I haven't been able to buy my medications for five days because I don't have the money. It doesn't seem fair to the survivors or the retirees.

Beyond the financial hardship, the retirees expressed deep concern over what they perceive as a progressive dismantling of social welfare services and healthcare coverage previously guaranteed by the company. They claim Cantv is failing to honor its contractual obligations to its retired workforce, leaving them vulnerable and struggling.

Union groups representing the former employees have vowed to maintain street protests in the capital until Cantv authorities agree to open a channel for negotiation. They seek to restore the socio-economic guarantees that have been eroded, emphasizing the long-standing struggle to have their collective bargaining agreements, particularly regarding health benefits, respected.

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We have been fighting for many years for them to respect our collective agreement regarding health benefits, and they don't respect us. Now, as if that weren't enough, they have left us on the street to die, sick, and they have also taken away a benefit that had been consolidated as regular and permanent.